Methods of using il-1 antagonists to treat familial mediterranean fever (fmf)

ABSTRACT

Methods of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) by administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist, are provided. The IL-1 antagonist can be an antibody or derivative thereof, which is capable of blocking or inhibiting the biological action of IL-1, thereby treating, inhibiting or ameliorating FMF. Also provided are methods of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating FMF by administering a therapeutically effective amount of an IL-1 antagonist in combination with additional therapeutic agents, including IL-1-specific fusion proteins, TNF inhibitors, NSAIDs, steroids, and the like.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/259,366, filed 28 Oct. 2008, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/144,987, filed 3 Jun. 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,459,426, which claims the benefit under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. Ser. No. 60/577,023 filed 4 Jun. 2004, which applications are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to methods of using interleukin-1 (IL-1) antagonists to treat autoinflammatory diseases, such as, for example, including familial mediterranean fever (FMF), NOMID/CINCA, Muckle-Wells Syndrome, FCAS, and tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic fever syndrome (TRAPS).

2. Description of Related Art

One important group of autoinflammatory disorders encompasses autosomal dominant conditions associated with mutations in CIAS-1, a gene that encodes a pyrin-related protein called “cryopyrin” (Feldmann et al. (2002) Am. J. Hum. Genet. 71:198-203; Hoffman et al. (2001) Nat. Genet. 29:301-305). These disorders include Neonatal Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disorder (NOMID/CINCA), Muckle-Wells Syndrome (MWS), and Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome (FCAS). These disorders present as a spectrum of clinical manifestations ranging from FCAS being the mildest to the seriously disabling disease of NOMID/CINCA. An urticaria like skin rash is common to the entire spectrum of these diseases. In patients with FCAS, this rash is inducible by cold exposure while most patients with MWS or NOMID present with daily rashes that are consistently provoked by a number of different stimuli. Conjunctivitis is present in all forms of disease expression, however, hearing loss, aseptic meningitis and arthritis are mainly seen in patients with MWS and NOMID/CINCA. The disfiguring and disabling body overgrowth at the epiphyses and patellae is only seen in patients with NOMID/CINCA.

FMF is a recessively inherited condition characterized by episodes of fever and serositis or synovitis; some subjects also develop systemic amyloidosis (Balow et al. (1997) Genomics 44:280-291). The FMF gene encodes a novel protein called pyrin that is the prototype of a family of molecules involved in the regulation of apoptosis (cell-death) and inflammation. The precise biochemical mechanism by which these proteins function, and by which mutations cause disease, is still unknown.

Still's Disease (systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis), is manifested by spiking fevers, evanescent salmon color rash, arthritis, arthralgia, and hepatosplenomegaly (Masson et al. (1995) Rev. Rhum. Engl. Ed. 62:748-757; Spiegel et al. (2000) Arthritis Rheum. 43:2402-2409). There are as yet no definitive genetic associations with Still's Disease and the pathogenesis is poorly understood. Interestingly, many of the signs and symptoms of Still's disease are similar to those with autoinflammatory disease. Still's Disease typically first occurs during childhood, but can also have its onset in adulthood.

Similarly, Kawasaki disease is a disease affecting children that is accompanied by fevers, swelling and arthritic joints, and rash, as well as vascular inflammation that can cause permanent coronary damage in approximately 15-25% of affected children. Two other similar diseases are Blau's syndrome and Early Onset Sarcoidosis (EOS), both of which are caused by a gain of function mutations in NOD2, a protein similar to Pyrin, and cause rash, granulomatosis, arthritis and uveitis. Other diseases that have also been considered autoinflammatory include Hidradenitis suppurativa, Behcet's, hyperimmunoglobulinemiaDwith periodic fever syndrome (HIDS), tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic fever syndrome (TRAPS), and Pyogenic sterile arthritis, pyoderma gangrenosum and acne (PAPA syndrome).

The pathogenesis of autoinflammatory disease is not completely understood. There is a growing body of evidence that interleukin-1 (IL-1) plays a role in a number of these conditions and that targeting of this cytokine can provide important benefits (Hoffman et al. (2004) Arthritis. Rheum. 50:345-349). There is clearly a need to develop improved therapeutic treatment of these autoinflammatory diseases

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, the invention features a method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating an autoinflammatory disorder, comprising administering to a subject in need an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist. An IL-1 antagonist is a compound capable of blocking or inhibiting the biological action of IL-1, including IL-1-binding fusion proteins. In a preferred embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is an IL-1-specific fusion protein comprising two IL-1 receptor components and a multimerizing component, for example, an IL-1 fusion protein trap anatagonist (an “IL-1 trap”) described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,927,044, herein specifically incorporated by reference in its entirety. In a specific embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is the fusion protein shown in SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12,14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26. A preferred fusion protein is shown in SEQ ID NO:10. The invention encompasses the use of an IL-1-binding fusion protein substantially identical to the protein of SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12,14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, that is, a protein having at least 95% identity, at least 97% identity, at least 98% identity to the protein of SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 and capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1. Further, in specific embodiments, the IL-1 antagonist is a fusion protein comprising one or more immunoglobulin-derived components in place of one or more receptor components. In specific embodiments, the IL-1 antagonist comprises one or more immunoglobulin-derived components specific for IL-1 and/or an IL-1 receptor.

The subject being treated is most preferably a human diagnosed as suffering from an autoinflammatory disorder. More specifically, the subject is a human adult or child diagnosed with an autoinflammatory disorder associated with mutations in CIAS-1, such as Neonatal Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disorder (NOMID/CINCA), Muckle-Wells Syndrome (MWS), Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome (FCAS); familial mediterranean fever (FMF); systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (Still's Disease), tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic fever syndrome (TRAPS), or Kawasaki Disease.

The method of the invention includes administration of the IL-1 antagonist by any means known to the art, for example, subcutaneous, intramuscular, intranasal, intravenous, transdermal administration or oral routes of administration. Preferably, administration is subcutaneous or intravenous.

In a second aspect, the invention features a method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating a disease or condition selected from the group consisting of NOMID/CINCA, MWS, FCAS, FMF, Still's Disease, TRAPS, and Kawasaki Disease, the method comprising administering to a subject in need an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist. In a preferred embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is a fusion protein capable of trapping IL-1. In a specific embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is the fusion protein shown in SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12,14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, or a substantially identical protein capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1. A preferred IL-1 trap antagonist is shown in SEQ ID NO:10. Preferably, the subject treated is a child or adult human diagnosed with the disease or condition.

In a third aspect, the invention features a method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating Neonatal Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disorder (NOMID/CINCA), comprising administering to a subject in need an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist. In a preferred embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is a fusion protein capable of trapping IL-1. In a specific embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is the fusion protein shown in SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12,14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, or a substantially identical protein capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1. A preferred IL-1 antagonist is shown in SEQ ID NO:10.

In a fourth aspect, the invention features a method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating Muckle-Wells Syndrome (MWS), the method comprising administering to a subject in need an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist. In a preferred embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is a fusion protein capable of trapping IL-1. In a specific embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is the fusion protein shown in SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12,14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, or a substantially identical protein capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1. A preferred IL-1 antagonist is shown in SEQ ID NO:10.

In a fifth aspect, the invention features a method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome (FCAS) the method comprising administering to a subject in need an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist. In a preferred embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is a fusion protein capable of trapping IL-1. In a specific embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is the fusion protein shown in SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12,14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, or a substantially identical protein capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1. A preferred IL-1 antagonist is shown in SEQ ID NO:10.

In a sixth aspect, the invention features a method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating familial mediterranean fever (FMF), the method comprising administering to a subject in need an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist. In a preferred embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is a fusion protein capable of trapping IL-1. In a specific embodiment, the IL-1 trap is the fusion protein shown in SEQ ID NO:4, 6, 8, 10, 12,14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, or a substantially identical protein capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1. A preferred IL-1 trap is shown in SEQ ID NO:10.

In a seventh aspect, the invention features a method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating systemic onset juvenile idiopathic arthritis (Still's Disease), the method comprising administering to a subject in need an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist. In a preferred embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is a fusion protein capable of trapping IL-1. In a specific embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is the fusion protein shown in SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12,14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, or a substantially identical protein capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1. A preferred IL-1 trap is shown in SEQ ID NO:10.

In an eighth aspect, the invention features a method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated periodic fever syndrome (TRAPS), the method comprising administering to a subject in need an IL-1 antagonist. In a preferred embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is a fusion protein capable of trapping IL-1. In a specific embodiment, the IL-1 antagonist is the fusion protein shown in SEQ ID NO:4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, or a substantially identical protein capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1. A preferred IL-1 trap is shown in SEQ ID NO:10.

In specific embodiments of the therapeutic method of the invention, the subject is treated with a combination of a first IL-1-binding fusion protein trap molecule and a second therapeutic agent. The second therapeutic agent may be a second IL-1 antagonist, such as, for example, a second IL-1-binding fusion protein trap, anakinra (Kineret®, Amgen), a recombinant, nonglycosylated form of the human IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL1Ra), or an anti-IL-18 drug such as IL-18BP or a derivative, an IL-18-binding fusion protein trap (an “IL-18 trap”), anti-IL-18, anti-IL-18R1, or anti-IL-18Racp antibodies or antibody fragments. Other co-therapies include low dose colchine for FMF, aspirin or other NSAIDs, steroids such as prednisolone, methotrexate, low dose cyclosporine A, TNF inhibitors such as Enbrel®, or Humira®, other inflammatory inhibitors such as inhibitors of caspase-1, p38, IKK1/2, CTLA-41 g, anti-IL-6 or anti-IL6Ra, etc.

In a ninth aspect, the invention features a therapeutic method of treating an autoinflammatory disease or condition, comprising administering a pharmaceutical composition comprising an IL-1-binding fusion protein trap and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In one embodiment, the IL-1-binding fusion protein trap is administered in a dose range of 1-20 mg/kg on a weekly basis for a treatment period of between 1 week to one year or more. In another embodiment, a total IL-1-binding fusion protein is administered in the range of 50-2000 mg, which may be provided in a single dose or in sequential doses over a period of time such as a period of weeks or months.

Other objects and advantages will become apparent from a review of the ensuing detailed description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present methods are described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular methods, and experimental conditions described, as such methods and conditions may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention will be limited only to the appended claims.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus for example, a reference to “a method” includes one or more methods, and/or steps of the type described herein and/or which will become apparent to those persons skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure and so forth.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described. All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

General Description

Mutations in the gene CIAS1 are now recognized as being responsible for three rare genetic syndromes: Neonatal Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disorder (NOMID), Muckle-Wells Syndrome (MWS), and Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome (FCAS). (Hoffman et al. 2001 Nature 29:301-305; Feldmann et al. 2002 Am J Hum Genet 71:198-203; Aksentijevich et al. 2002 Arthritis Rheum 46:3340-3348). In aggregate, these conditions are known as “CAPS”, an acronym for “CIAS1 Associated Periodic Syndromes”. CAPS disorders are exceedingly rare; with approximately 200-300 adults and children in the U.S. with FCAS and significantly fewer adults with NOMID or MWS known to have these conditions. The rarity of these conditions, particularly NOMID and MWS, are probably due to effects of disease severity on survival or reproductive fitness.

CAPS are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, with a sporadic or familial pattern. CIAS1 encodes a protein called NALP3 that is a component of the “inflammasome”, a subcellular enzyme complex that regulates the activity of caspase 1. Caspase 1 is the enzyme that cleaves the inactive pro-form of the proinflammatory cytokine, IL-1, into its biologically active form (Agostini et al. 2004 supra). Mutations in CIAS1 lead to increased production of IL-1 and numerous pathological consequences (Aksentijevich et al. 2002 supra). IL-1 strongly induces the production of acute phase reactants in the liver, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA).

The genetics of CASPS are interesting in that there can be a number of different point mutations in CIAS1 associated with these syndromes (Sarrauste de Menthiere et al. 2003 Nucleic Acids Res 31:282-285; Aksentijevich et al. 2002 supra). Some of these mutations are associated with only one syndrome; others two. For example, some mutations may be associated with FCAS as well as MWS; other mutations may be associated with MWS and NOMID. Approximately 50% of patients with NOMID do not have a recognized mutation in the coding region of CIAS1. In these patients, the disease may be due to an as-yet-unrecognized mutation in a regulatory region or protein of CIAS1, or in another gene encoding a closely-related protein in this pathway. FCAS is more genetically homogenenous than NOMID; almost all patients with FCAS share a common mutation (Sarrauste de Menthiere et al. 2003 supra; Hoffman et al. 2001 supra),

CAPS disorders share common clinical features and present as a spectrum of clinical severity. NOMID is the most seriously disabling, MWS somewhat less so and FCAS is the least severe. CAPS disorders have overlapping features and there are individuals and kindred with unique constellations of signs and symptoms. Features common to all these conditions include fevers, urticaria-like rash, arthritis or arthralgia, myalgia, malaise, and conjunctivitis. However, the spectrum of symptoms for any patient with a CAPS disorder may differ from that of another patient with the same disorder. A universal feature of active CAPS disease is laboratory test elevation of acute phase reactants, such as CRP, SAA, and/or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).

In NOMID, chronic aseptic meningitis may lead to mental retardation and these patients may also suffer disfiguring and disabling bony overgrowth at the epiphyses and patellae. These patients may also suffer blindness due to optic nerve atrophy that results from increased intracranial pressure. MWS and NOMID are commonly associated with severe inflammation that may include the auditory system, meninges, and joints. These patients may suffer daily high spiking fevers and a chronic rash that frequently changes in distribution and intensity. Patients may suffer hearing loss or deafness. Conjunctivitis and papilledema are frequently observed. Amyloidosis may develop and lead to renal failure due to chronic inflammation and overproduction of acute phase reactants (particularly SAA). MWS is also known as “amyloidosis-deafness syndrome”.

The clinical signes and symptoms of FCAS are induced by exposure to modestly cold air (e.g., seasonal temperature changes, air conditioning). Patients may have frequent (sometimes daily) episodes of a painful or pruritic rash, fever, fatigue, malaise, headache, nausea, and thirst during cold months or in locations where air conditioning is prevalent. In many locales, this may include most work places. FCAS is a source of frequent pain to patients and may restrict their employment, social, and recreational opportunities. Up to 2% of patients with FCAS develop amyloidosis, a life-threatening condition. This frequency is substantially higher than the rate of amyloidosis in the general community. The genetics and natural history of FCAS are described in detail in Hoffman et al. 2001 Nature 29:301-305; and Hoffman et al. 2001 J Allergy Clin Immunol 108:615-620, which publications are herein specifically incorporated by reference in their entirety.

DEFINITIONS

By the term “blocker”, “inhibitor”, or “antagonist” is meant a substance that retards or prevents a chemical or physiological reaction or response. Common blockers or inhibitors include but are not limited to antisense molecules, antibodies, antagonists and their derivatives. More specifically, an example of an IL-1 blocker or inhibitor is an IL-1 antagonist including, but not limited to, an IL-1 fusion protein trap antagonist, which binds and inhibits IL-1.

By the term “therapeutically effective dose” is meant a dose that produces the desired effect for which it is administered. The exact dose will depend on the purpose of the treatment, and will be ascertainable by one skilled in the art using known techniques (see, for example, Lloyd (1999) The Art, Science and Technology of Pharmaceutical Compounding).

By the term “substantially identical” is meant a protein sequence having at least 95% identity to an amino acid sequence selected from the group consisting of the amino acid sequences SEQ ID NOs: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, and 26, and capable of binding IL-1 and inhibiting the biological activity of IL-1.

The term “identity” or “homology” is construed to mean the percentage of amino acid residues in the candidate sequence that are identical with the residue of a corresponding sequence to which it is compared, after aligning the sequences and introducing gaps, if necessary to achieve the maximum percent identity for the entire sequence, and not considering any conservative substitutions as part of the sequence identity. Neither N- or C-terminal extensions nor insertions will be construed as reducing identity or homology. Methods and computer programs for the alignment are well known in the art. Sequence identity may be measured using sequence analysis software (e.g., Sequence Analysis Software Package, Genetics Computer Group, University of Wisconsin Biotechnology Center, 1710 University Ave., Madison, Wis. 53705). This software matches similar sequences by assigning degrees of homology to various substitutions, deletions, and other modifications.

IL-1-Binding Fusion Protein Trap Antagonists

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) traps are multimers of fusion proteins containing IL-1 receptor components and a multimerizing component capable of interacting with the multimerizing component present in another fusion protein to form a higher order structure, such as a dimer. The IL-1-binding fusion proteins useful in the methods of the invention include two distinct receptor components that bind a single cytokine, resulting in the generation of antagonists with dramatically increased affinity over that offered by single component reagents. The IL-1-binding fusion protein traps are comprised of the extracellular domain of human IL-1 R Type I (IL-1 RI) or Type II (IL-1 RII) followed by the extracellular domain of human IL-1 Accessory protein (IL-1AcP), followed by a multimerizing component. In a preferred embodiment, the multimerizing component is an immunoglobulin-derived domain, such as, for example, the Fc region of human IgG, including part of the hinge region, the CH2 and CH3 domains. An immunoglobulin-derived domain may be selected from any of the major classes of immunoglobulins, including IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG and IgM, and any subclass or isotype, e.g. IgG1, IgG2, IgG3 and IgG4; IgA-1 and IgA-2. Alternatively, the IL-1-binding fusion proteins useful in the method of the invention are comprised of the extracellular domain of human IL-1AcP, followed by the extracellular domain of human IL-1 RI or IL-1RII, followed by a multimerizing component. For a more detailed description of the IL-1-binding fusion protein traps, see WO 00/18932, which publication is herein specifically incorporated by reference in its entirety. Preferred IL-1 antagonists have the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NOs: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, and 26, or a substantially identical protein at least 95% identity to a sequence of SEQ ID NO: 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, or 26, and capable of binding and inhibiting IL-1.

Treatment Population

The therapeutic methods of the invention are useful for treating individuals affected with CIAS-1 mutation disorders (NOMID, MWS, FCAS), FMF, TRAPS, or Still's Disease. Commonly accepted diagnostic criteria for CIAS-1 mutation associated disease (NOMID, MWS, FCAS), Familial Mediterranean Fever, or Still's Disease (adult- or juvenile-onset) are known to those skilled in the art. In the case of patients diagnosed with FMF, the therapeutic method of the invention may be particularly useful for those with disease refractory to therapy with colchicine.

Methods of Administration

The invention provides methods of treatment comprising administering to a subject an effective amount of an agent of the invention. In a preferred aspect, the agent is substantially purified (e.g., substantially free from substances that limit its effect or produce undesired side-effects).

Various delivery systems are known and can be used to administer an agent of the invention, e.g., encapsulation in liposomes, microparticles, microcapsules, recombinant cells capable of expressing the compound, receptor-mediated endocytosis (see, e.g., Wu and Wu, 1987, J. Biol. Chem. 262:4429-4432), construction of a nucleic acid as part of a retroviral or other vector, etc. Methods of introduction can be enteral or parenteral and include but are not limited to intradermal, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, intravenous, subcutaneous, intranasal, epidural, and oral routes. The compounds may be administered by any convenient route, for example by infusion or bolus injection, by absorption through epithelial or mucocutaneous linings (e.g., oral mucosa, rectal and intestinal mucosa, etc.) and may be administered together with other biologically active agents. Administration can be systemic or local. In addition, it may be desirable to introduce the pharmaceutical compositions of the invention into the central nervous system by any suitable route, including intraventricular and intrathecal injection; intraventricular injection may be facilitated by an intraventricular catheter, for example, attached to a reservoir, such as an Ommaya reservoir. Pulmonary administration can also be employed, e.g., by use of an inhaler or nebulizer, and formulation with an aerosolizing agent.

In a specific embodiment, it may be desirable to administer the pharmaceutical compositions of the invention locally to the area in need of treatment; this may be achieved, for example, and not by way of limitation, by local infusion during surgery, topical application, e.g., by injection, by means of a catheter, or by means of an implant, said implant being of a porous, non-porous, or gelatinous material, including membranes, such as sialastic membranes, fibers, commercial skin substitutes or angioplasty balloons or stents.

In another embodiment, the active agent can be delivered in a vesicle, in particular a liposome (see Langer (1990) Science 249:1527-1533). In yet another embodiment, the active agent can be delivered in a controlled release system. In one embodiment, a pump may be used (see Langer (1990) supra). In another embodiment, polymeric materials can be used (see Howard et al. (1989) J. Neurosurg. 71:105). In another embodiment where the active agent of the invention is a nucleic acid encoding a protein, the nucleic acid can be administered in vivo to promote expression of its encoded protein, by constructing it as part of an appropriate nucleic acid expression vector and administering it so that it becomes intracellular, e.g., by use of a retroviral vector (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,980,286), or by direct injection, or by use of microparticle bombardment (e.g., a gene gun; Biolistic, Dupont), or coating with lipids or cell-surface receptors or transfecting agents, or by administering it in linkage to a homeobox-like peptide which is known to enter the nucleus (see e.g., Joliot et al., 1991, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 88:1864-1868), etc. Alternatively, a nucleic acid can be introduced intracellularly and incorporated within host cell DNA for expression, by homologous recombination.

Combination Therapies

In numerous embodiments, the IL-1 antagonists useful in the methods of the present invention may be administered in combination with one or more additional compounds or therapies. Combination therapy may be simultaneous or sequential. The IL-1-binding fusion proteins of the invention may be combined with, for example, TNF-inhibiting agents such as etanercept (Enbrel®, Amgen), infliximab (Remicade®, Centocor), Humira® (Abbott), thalidomide, steroids, anakinra (Kinaret®, Amgen), or colchicine. Colchicine is a mainstay of therapy for subjects with FMF; in this study, subjects will not be removed from treatment with this medication. For Still's Disease (and classical autoinflammatory diseases), compounds such as methotrexate, cyclosporine, chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide (DMARDs) have been used as monotherapy or in combination with no consistent response. Some subjects respond to high doses of steroids. DMARDs, and more recently anti-TNF agents have been used with variable success. The IL-1-binding fusion proteins of the invention may also be combined with anti-IL-18 drugs, such as for example, IL-18BP or a derivative, an IL-18-binding fusion protein, anti-IL-18, anti-IL-18R1, or anti-IL-18Racp. Other co-therapies include low dose colchicine for FMF, aspirin or other NSAIDs, steroids such as prednisolone, methotrexate, low dose cyclosporine A, TNF inhibitors such as Enbrel®, or Humira®, other inflammatory inhibitors such as inhibitors of caspase-1, p38, IKK1/2, CTLA-41 g, anti-IL-6 or anti-IL6Ra, etc.

Pharmaceutical Compositions

The present invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions. Such compositions comprise a therapeutically effective amount of an active agent, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The term “pharmaceutically acceptable” means approved by a regulatory agency of the Federal or a state government or listed in the U.S. Pharmacopeia or other generally recognized pharmacopeia for use in animals, and more particularly, in humans. The term “carrier” refers to a diluent, adjuvant, excipient, or vehicle with which the therapeutic is administered. Such pharmaceutical carriers can be sterile liquids, such as water and oils, including those of petroleum, animal, vegetable or synthetic origin, such as peanut oil, soybean oil, mineral oil, sesame oil and the like. Suitable pharmaceutical excipients include starch, glucose, lactose, sucrose, gelatin, malt, rice, flour, chalk, silica gel, sodium stearate, glycerol monostearate, talc, sodium chloride, dried skim milk, glycerol, propylene, glycol, water, ethanol and the like. The composition, if desired, can also contain minor amounts of wetting or emulsifying agents, or pH buffering agents. These compositions can take the form of solutions, suspensions, emulsion, tablets, pills, capsules, powders, sustained-release formulations and the like. The composition can be formulated as a suppository, with traditional binders and carriers such as triglycerides. Oral formulation can include standard carriers such as pharmaceutical grades of mannitol, lactose, starch, magnesium stearate, sodium saccharine, cellulose, magnesium carbonate, etc. Examples of suitable pharmaceutical carriers are described in “Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences” by E. W. Martin.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition is formulated in accordance with routine procedures as a pharmaceutical composition adapted for intravenous administration to human beings. Where necessary, the composition may also include a solubilizing agent and a local anesthetic such as lidocaine to ease pain at the site of the injection. Where the composition is to be administered by infusion, it can be dispensed with an infusion bottle containing sterile pharmaceutical grade water or saline. Where the composition is administered by injection, an ampoule of sterile water for injection or saline can be provided so that the ingredients may be mixed prior to administration.

The active agents of the invention can be formulated as neutral or salt forms. Pharmaceutically acceptable salts include those formed with free amino groups such as those derived from hydrochloric, phosphoric, acetic, oxalic, tartaric acids, etc., and those formed with free carboxyl groups such as those derived from sodium, potassium, ammonium, calcium, ferric hydroxides, isopropylamine, triethylamine, 2-ethylamino ethanol, histidine, procaine, etc.

The amount of the active agent of the invention which will be effective in the treatment of delayed-type hypersensitivity can be determined by standard clinical techniques based on the present description. In addition, in vitro assays may optionally be employed to help identify optimal dosage ranges. The precise dose to be employed in the formulation will also depend on the route of administration, and the seriousness of the condition, and should be decided according to the judgment of the practitioner and each subject's circumstances. However, suitable dosage ranges for intravenous administration are generally up to about 2 grams of active compound. Effective doses may be extrapolated from dose-response curves derived from in vitro or animal model test systems.

For systemic administration, a therapeutically effective dose can be estimated initially from in vitro assays. For example, a dose can be formulated in animal models to achieve a circulating concentration range that includes the IC₅₀ as determined in cell culture. Such information can be used to more accurately determine useful doses in humans. Initial dosages can also be estimated from in vivo data, e.g., animal models, using techniques that are well known in the art. One having ordinary skill in the art could readily optimize administration to humans based on animal data.

Dosage amount and interval may be adjusted individually to provide plasma levels of the compounds that are sufficient to maintain therapeutic effect. In cases of local administration or selective uptake, the effective local concentration of the compounds may not be related to plasma concentration. One having skill in the art will be able to optimize therapeutically effective local dosages without undue experimentation.

The amount of compound administered will, of course, be dependent on the subject being treated, on the subject's weight, the severity of the affliction, the manner of administration, the frequency of administration and the judgment of the prescribing physician. The therapy may be repeated intermittently while symptoms are detectable or even when they are not detectable. The therapy may be provided alone or in combination with other drugs.

Kits

The invention also provides an article of manufacturing comprising packaging material and a pharmaceutical agent contained within the packaging material, wherein the pharmaceutical agent comprises at least one IL-1-specific fusion protein of the invention and wherein the packaging material comprises a label or package insert which indicates that the IL-1-specific fusion protein can be used for treating an autoinflammatory disease or condition.

Other features of the invention will become apparent in the course of the following descriptions of exemplary embodiments which are given for illustration of the invention and are not intended to be limiting thereof.

EXAMPLES

The following example is put forth so as to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how to make and use the methods and compositions of the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of what the inventors regard as their invention. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers used (e.g., amounts, temperature, etc.) but some experimental errors and deviations should be accounted for. Unless indicated otherwise, parts are parts by weight, molecular weight is average molecular weight, temperature is in degrees Centigrade, and pressure is at or near atmospheric.

Example 1 Effect of IL-1 Trap on Human Autoinflammatory Disease

An initial study is conducted with 15 adult subjects suffering from diseases known to respond to IL-1 blockade (NOMID/MWS/FCAS) as well as subjects with Adult Still's Disease and colchicine-resistant FMF. Subjects are screened for eligibility, clinical symptoms determined, active disease confirmed and baseline blood is drawn on approximately 3 occasions one week apart to determine baseline levels of inflammation. A careful, complete standardized history and physical exam is performed, appropriate for the disease under study to assure uniform data collection on every subject. Vital signs and weight is obtained at each visit. The clinical data is based on a detailed questionnaire including all the reported clinical manifestations. The following evaluation procedures pertain specifically to CIAS-1 mutation associated disorders and are performed as clinically indicated: dermatological evaluation; ophthalmologic evaluation; ear/nose/throat evaluation; neurology evaluation; lumbar puncture; head MRI; radiographs, joint MRI; and pharmacokinetic profiling.

All study subjects receive IL-1-binding fusion protein (SEQ ID NO:10) with a dosing regimen of 100 mg once a day for 3 consecutive days, a regimen expected to provide 2-4 weeks of significant IL-1 inhibitory activity. The primary outcomes are measured during this period and include drug safety, clinical efficacy analysis, and the change in selected biomarkers of inflammation (e.g., acute phase reactants such as CRP, serum amyloid A, and ESR) at Day 10 following initiation of treatment with IL-1 trap. If a favorable response is observed at Day 10, subjects are monitored at predefined time points (with no further treatment) until return of signs and symptoms (flare). Upon flare, subjects are eligible for entry into an extension phase that entails re-treatment with the loading regimen (100 mg/day IL-1 trap for three consecutive days) followed by once-weekly dosing with 100 mg IL-1 trap for up to one year.

Based on the Investigator's clinical judgment, an IL-1 trap dose escalation regimen may be implemented if, after 4 weeks of dosing in the extension phase at 100 mg/week, a subject's Month 1 acute phase reactant levels have not normalized (CRP>0.5 mg/dL and/or SAA>10 mg/L) or escalation is warranted based on persistent signs and/or symptoms of disease. The first dose escalation level may be 160 mg s.c. once weekly. Subjects will be observed for 4 weeks; if criteria for dose escalation are still met, then the dose may be raised to 320 mg s.c. once-weekly.

Preliminary Results. Four subjects with CAPS were initially enrolled. Results indicated that all subjects experienced rapid and extensive improvement in inflammatory signs and symptoms upon treatment with IL-1 trap (SEQ ID NO:10), including improvement in both patient- and physician-reported disease manifestation. Major declines in inflammatory biomarkers, such as CRP and SAA were also observed. Signs and symptoms returned within a median of 21 days (range 9-26 days) of initial dosing and then responded promptly to re-treatment. Table 1 provides a summary of the daily diary scores, acute phase reactants and clinical assessments (‡ Performed on 3 patients; * statistically significant difference from previous time point at p<0.1 level; ** statistically significant difference from previous time point at p<0.05 level). The Physician and Patient global assessment VAS scores mirrored the changes in the acute phase reactants (SAA, CRP and ESR) at baseline, at the time of flare, and at a time point designated as reflecting maximal efficacy.

TABLE 1 Baseline Maximal Efficacy Flare median (range) median (range) median (range) Daily Diary Score 6.06 (2.2-7.56) 1.67 (0-3.3)* 4.5 (2-7.33) Acute phase reactants SAA (mg/L) 96 (16.1-468) 8.25 (2-19) 84 (50-236)‡ CRP (mg/dL) 7.28 (2.32-8.65) 0.72 (0.07-1.15)** 2.93 (0.076-6.21) ESR (mm/hr) 56.67 (22-92) 24 (7-45)** 34 (11-70)* Blood Count WBC 15.28 (9.33-19.4) 7.58 (7.21-9.9)** 8.48 (6.34-11.47) Hgb 12.95 (8.1-14.7) 13.3 (8.2-15.6)* 13.1 (7.9-14.57) Plt 356.5 (291-445.5) 303.25 (240-377)** 291 (257-359.3) Questionnaires‡ Physician global VAS (cm) 6.85 (4.1-6.95) 0.2 (0.2-2.6) 3.3 (3.1-3.5) Patient global VAS (cm) 5.2 (3.95-6.9) 1.1 (0.95-3.05)** 3.6 (3.1-6.45)** Fatigue VAS (cm) 5.55 (3.25-8) 1.15 (0.5-3.9) 6.6 (3.15-6.9) Pain VAS (cm) 7.55 (3.6-7.7) 0.95 (0.2-1.05)* 4.1 (0.5-6.55) SF-36 Physical Health 44.38 (42.5-47.5) 50.63 (33.75-92.5) 41.56 (35-69.4) SF-36 Mental Health 41.625 (28.5-57.8) 75.88 (55-96) 39.6 (37-57) 

1. A method of treating, inhibiting, or ameliorating familial mediterranean fever (FMF) in a subject, comprising administering to the subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of an interleukin 1 (IL-1) antagonist.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the IL-1 antagonist is an antibody or derivative thereof which is capable of blocking or inhibiting the biological action of IL-1, thereby treating, inhibiting or ameliorating FMF.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the antibody or derivative thereof binds IL-1.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the antibody or derivative thereof is administered subcutaneously, intramuscularly, or intravenously.
 5. The method of claim 2 further comprising one or more additional therapeutic agents selected from the group consisting of an IL-1-specific fusion protein, etanercept (Enbrel®, Amgen), infliximab (Remicade®, Centocor), Humira® (Abbott), thalidomide, a steroid, anakinra (Kinaret®, Amgen), colchicine, IL-18BP or a derivative, an IL-18-binding fusion protein, anti-IL-18, anti-IL-18R1, anti-IL-18Racp, aspirin, prednisolone, methotrexate, cyclosporine A, caspase-1, p38, IKK1/2, CTLA-41 g, anti-IL-6 and anti-IL6Ra.
 6. The method of claim 5, the additional therapeutic agent is an IL-1-specific fusion protein comprising the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:10.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the antibody or derivative thereof and the IL-1-specific fusion protein are administered simultaneously.
 8. The method of claim 6, wherein the antibody or derivative thereof and the IL-1-specific fusion protein are administered sequentially.
 9. The method of claim 5, wherein the antibody or derivative thereof and one or more additional therapeutic agents are administered simultaneously.
 10. The method of claim 5, wherein the antibody or derivative thereof and one or more additional therapeutic agents are administered sequentially.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject is a human. 